Peppermint Oil for Spiders: Does it Work

Using peppermint oil for spiders is a common at-home solution to any pesky infestation, but before you start sprinkling this oil around your home, you should understand how to do it right!

Does Peppermint Oil Repel Spiders?

Yes, using peppermint oil can be an effective means of repelling spiders. It is commonly known that many essential oils function as natural insect repellents, and while spiders aren’t technically insects, they also seem to be immediately turned away by the odor. It is believed that peppermint oil – the essential oil of the hybrid mint plant – has such a strong odor and such powerful aromatic compounds that spiders, who often smell with their legs and hair, will avoid walking through an area with that oil present.

Some of the other active ingredients in the oil may also be slightly toxic to spiders, so they will quickly turn and move away from the source of such a smell. Lining any cracks or crevices in your house with peppermint oil, as well as doors to the outside, can be a quick solution that doesn’t kill the spiders, but does keep your home clear.

Note: You can reapply this spray mixture on your doors and windows every 1-2 weeks, as the aromas will last far beyond the time when humans are able to detect them.

Side Effects of Peppermint Oil for Spiders

Peppermint oil might have a few side effects, such as:

Skin Allergies: Whenever you use essential oils, you must be careful about exposure, particularly to the skin. In some cases, this is perfectly safe, but topical irritation andinflammation are possible.

Topical Inflammation: When spraying this mixture in an enclosed space, be sure not to inhale too many of the fumes directly from the spray of vinegar and peppermint oil. This can cause lightheadedness, headaches, topical inflammation of the sinuses, and other unwanted side effects.

While it isn’t a major risk, it is best to keep your pets away from these sprayed areas for a few hours.

John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, and publisher who earned his English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign, Urbana (USA). He is the co-founder of a literary journal, Sheriff Nottingham, and calls the most beautiful places in the world his office. On a perpetual journey towards the idea of home, he uses words to educate, inspire, uplift and evolve.

Rate this article

Average rating 4.0 out of 5.0 based on 62 user(s).

Sign-up for our wellness newsletter

Do you want the best of science-backed health & nutrition information in your inbox? If yes, please share your email to subscribe.